“When I’m running, I’m not somebody’s daughter, sister or mother. I leave work behind. I’m just me.”
That’s how Helen Goode feels on her weekly run with Sole Mate, a social running group in Merthyr Tydfil. More than just exercise, the club has become a lifeline for women across the town – helping them overcome grief, recover from illness, and clear their minds.
Born from a local running shop, Sole Mate doesn’t measure success in medals or personal bests – it’s about mental health, friendship and freedom.
Creating running leaders with the Be Active Wales Fund
To make this impact in the community, the group needed to train up ‘run leaders’ to host their social running sessions. Thanks to the Be Active Wales Fund, Sole Mate received £620 to offer coaching courses for their volunteers.
And now, more than 50 people plod the paths of the Taff Trail or loop the grounds around Cyfartha Castle every Tuesday.
How social running is boosting women’s mental health
Social running groups, like Sole Mate, are popping up across Wales. Their popularity is rising, especially with women. Women make up 75% of the runners at Sole Mate. That’s because of the safety and friendship that comes with being part of these groups.
Here’s how social running is making a difference:
- Providing a safe space to run
- Creating friendships
- Offering social support
- Empowering women to overcome challenges
Runners, Helen and Becky, meet at Sole Mate every week to run a 5K route. Their friendship has extended beyond club sessions – they now run together on their own too.
Here are their stories on how social running with Sole Mate has improved their mental health.
